Occupational Certificate: Quality Inspector
SAQA ID
117308
NQF Level
03
Credits
43
Purpose & Rationale
Prepares learners to work as Quality Inspectors who:
- Interpret specifications, standards and legislation.
- Measure and inspect inputs, processes and outputs against set criteria.
- Record, summarise and report quality data.
- Recommend corrective actions for non-conformances.
By reducing waste, costs and liability risk, it equips learners with competencies to support quality control in diverse sectors (manufacturing, services, hospitality, health, IT, etc.) and lays a foundation for career progression (Quality Controller → Assurer → Manager).
Entry & Recognition of Prior Learning
- Entry requirement: NQF Level 2 qualification with Mathematical Literacy
- RPL: Available for both access to the qualification and to the external summative assessment
Qualification Structure (43 Credits)
- Knowledge (16 credits):
- Introduction to Quality Control (6 credits)
- Quality Inspection Practices (10 credits)
- Practical Skills (11 credits):
- Conduct Quality Inspections (10 credits)
- Occupational Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance (1 credit)
- Work Experience (16 credits):
- Induction, Company Processes & Inspection Procedures
Exit Level Outcomes
- Interpret and apply specifications, standards and legal requirements.
- Inspect and verify product/process conformance.
- Record, collate and report quality information.
- Recommend and justify corrective actions.
Assessment combines internal formative activities (guided by a curriculum) and an external integrated summative assessment (written and practical) conducted by a QCTO-accredited assessor.
International Comparability
Benchmarked against Level 3 QC qualifications in India (automotive sector) and the UK (City & Guilds Level 3 NVQ in Engineering Technical Support: Quality Control), showing similar core inspection skills and optional units.
Articulation Options
- Horizontal: National Certificate in Quality Checking of Tyres and Tyre Components (NQF Level 3)
- Vertical: Occupational Certificate: Quality Controller (NQF Level 4)